2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1988 BMW Z1
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1988 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2450 mm |
